Interview
Jainika Shah
1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
Hi! I am an internationally experienced architectural designer currently based in San Diego, California. As an Indian architect with a master’s degree from Pratt University, my journey delved into harnessing dynamic and evolving principles of design to produce architectural endeavours for the betterment of society.
2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
Since a young age, I have been intrigued with art and design. I loved exploring new spaces and that really drew me towards architecture. I honed my skills at Mumbai University and Pratt Institute and thus my journey began as an architect.
3 Tell us more about your agency/company, job profile, and what you do.
I have several years of experience delivering a diverse range of projects including Science & Technology, industrial, commercial workplace, higher education, residential, etc across the USA and India. Throughout my career, I have overseen the production and design of different architectural marvels while providing user and client satisfaction. My consistent dedication has earned me great recognition in my field.
4 What does “design” mean to you?
Design to me is seamlessly blending design concepts and building science. Architects are designers who communicate through space and form. It is not just a physical but also a visual representation of a design concept.
5 What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
My favourite kind of design is modern and innovative sustainable architecture. My mission has always been to create meaningful designs that add value to the existing community.
6 To you, what makes a “good” design?
A “good” design to me is innovating and creating staggering user experiences while adhering to sustainability.
7 How did you come up with the idea for your award-winning design?
I was trying to create a design that is eco-friendly and biodegradable. I researched innovative materials that can be used to design the space. I thoroughly studied mycelium which became the basis of my design.
8 What was your main source of inspiration for this design?
The mycelium material itself is my main source of inspiration. Mycelium is a long thread-like mushroom roots, which typically grow in a humid and shaded area. Mimicking the growth of mycelium, the intent of the design was to integrate the built space with the surrounding landscape while exploring the interplay of humans.
9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Yes, in my culture reusing and recycling waste has been very dominant. From a very young age, I was exposed to this concept. This has been one of the key driving factors in my design.
10 Congratulations! As the winner of the French Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Thank you. Winning the French Design Awards is an honour. It brings me joy that my design and work have been recognised on such a global platform.
11 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the French Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
The design of this house tries to seek a balance between built spaces and the surroundings and is designed with sustainability in mind. The architecture feels like it’s diffusing and developing freely. The generative and ever-evolving form resembles the growth of a mushroom. The surrounding landscape is interwoven with the interior spaces thus blurring the boundaries between the two. The interior spaces are segregated as well as blended, creating a natural flow between the spaces. The large openings and windows provide a panoramic view of the lake and evergreen vegetation.
12 What were the main challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?
A thorough research about the material had to be conducted. It was essential to understand the opportunities and limitations of this material and how to use it to our advantage.
13 How do you think winning this award will impact your future as a designer?
Winning this award has created a global platform for me to showcase my work and knowledge with my peers.
14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about the design industry?
My top three favourite things are innovation and creation, sustainability, and inclusion.
15 What sets your design apart from others in the same category?
My innovative use of a new material sets me apart in this category. This low-cost material offers a promising step toward an architectural vision that is at one with nature.
16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
The field of design is always changing and evolving. Designers are becoming more cautious about the impact of their designs on the environment. This practice is helping to create more sustainable futuristic designs.
17 What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs?
Don’t be afraid of innovating and creating something new. Always believe in yourself and your work.
18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
There are a lot of resources available to improve one’s skills. It would mainly depend on the designer and their design. But there are a few Software like grasshopper and Maya that I would recommend. The use of AI is also increasing. I would like to see how designers use this technology to their advantage.
19 Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
I am currently researching ways architects can use AI in designing.
20 Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My family members have always inspired me. They have not only inspired but also motivated me to achieve all my dreams in life.
21 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Hard work and innovation are my keys to success. Don’t be afraid of failures, consider that a second chance.
22 Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I would like to thank all the jury members for honouring me with this award. Thank you!
